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Epigenetic Biomarkers in Temporomandibular Joint Osteoarthritis: An Emerging Target in Treatment
Schilin Wen1,2, Javiera Santander1, Daniel Barria1
1Grupo de Investigación de Pregrado en Odontología, Universidad Autónoma de Chile, Temuco 4811230, Chile.
Abstract:
Osteoarthritis (OA) of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a progressive disease characterized by the progressive destruction of the internal surfaces of the joint. Certain epigenetic biomarkers have been detected in TMJ-OA. We summarized the available evidence on the epigenetic biomarkers in TMJ-OA. There is an increase in the expression of non-coding RNAs related to the degradation of the extracellular matrix, chondrocyte apoptosis, and proinflammatory cytokines, while there is a decrease in the expression of those related to COL2A1, as well as the osteogenic and chondrogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells. Certain methylated genes and histone modifications in TMJ-OA were also identified. In the early stage, DNA methylation was significantly decreased; that is, the expression of inflammation-related genes such as TNF and genes associated with extracellular matrix degradation, such as Adamts, were increased. While in the late stage, there was an increase in the expression of genes associated with the TGF-β and MAPK signaling pathway and angiogenesis-related genes. Although research on the role of epigenetic markers in TMJ-OA is still ongoing, the results here contribute to improving the basis for the identification of accurate diagnostic and prognostic markers and the development of new therapeutic molecules for the prevention and management of TMJ-OA. It also represents a significant advancement in elucidating its pathogenesis.
Insights
Epigenetic biomarkers, including non-coding RNAs and DNA methylation changes, are altered in temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis (TMJ-OA). These changes offer potential for diagnosing and treating TMJ-OA.
Area of Science:
- Epigenetics
- Temporomandibular Joint Osteoarthritis (TMJ-OA)
Background:
- Temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis (TMJ-OA) involves progressive joint surface destruction.
- Epigenetic alterations are increasingly recognized in TMJ-OA pathogenesis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize current evidence on epigenetic biomarkers in TMJ-OA.
- To explore the role of these biomarkers in disease progression and potential therapeutic targets.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on epigenetic modifications in TMJ-OA.
- Analysis of changes in non-coding RNA expression, DNA methylation, and histone modifications.
Main Results:
- Increased non-coding RNAs linked to extracellular matrix degradation and inflammation.
- Decreased non-coding RNAs associated with COL2A1 and stem cell differentiation.
- Dynamic DNA methylation patterns observed, with decreased methylation in early stages (e.g., increased TNF, Adamts) and increased gene expression in later stages (e.g., TGF-β, MAPK pathways).
Conclusions:
- Epigenetic markers show promise for TMJ-OA diagnosis and prognosis.
- Understanding these epigenetic changes advances knowledge of TMJ-OA pathogenesis.
- Potential for developing novel therapeutic strategies targeting epigenetic pathways in TMJ-OA.
